Nothing beats talking about boats, or getting out on the water in one. Besides sailing and maintaining my own boats, I enjoy thinking along with others to find practical solutions together.
Got a question about your boat, or just looking for a fresh perspective? Get in touch.
About me
I’m a maritime all-rounder who’s happiest either standing on deck or deep in the technical details. For me it’s simple: boating is fun, and it should stay that way.
Starting out as a skipper in the traditional Dutch sailing fleet (the ‘bruine vloot’), I’ve since expanded my qualifications with the Groot Vaarbewijs (all inland waters), a radar certificate and a VHF radio certificate. In my spare time, I love sailing with my family to Scandinavia on our two-masted yacht Gandalf, or pottering around the Dutch waterways on our flat-bottomed fishing boat, Sam. Wherever I am, I’m always thinking about how a boat works, and how it could work better.
My knowledge comes from hands-on experience. I’m fascinated by marine technology, I know boat ownership inside out, and I’m always looking for the most practical solution to a problem. I’ve built up my knowledge by researching, trying things out, and occasionally getting it wrong along the way. That means I know exactly what it’s like to be tearing your hair out in a sweltering engine room while still having to reassure the crew.
People enjoy working with me because I focus on what actually works, I’m independent, and I don’t sell unnecessarily complicated installations. I analyse the problem, then come up with the most practical solution for it.
No time for hassle, but want a level-headed opinion? Get in touch. We’ll briefly discuss your question over WhatsApp or by phone. If it’s a good fit, we’ll figure out whether I can help remotely or should come aboard.
Services
Few things beat talking about boats, sailing and technology. That’s why every conversation starts informally. There’s no quote-request form to fill in, and no expensive report afterwards. We talk through your questions and reach a conclusion or agreement together. That first contact is always by phone (or online) and free of charge.
Whether you’re unsure about a technical issue or need a hand with sailing: I enjoy thinking through your specific situation with you.
Advice
Sometimes you just need an extra pair of eyes, or an honest opinion. I help you make choices that suit your boat and your budget.
- Purchase: A second pair of eyes on a boat you’ve got your eye on.
- Technology: From shore power and electronics to rigging.
- Upgrades: My honest opinion on new systems and, more importantly, what actually works for you.
- Project guidance: Bring me in during a refit or installation — I’ll critically review quotes and the work itself.
Skippering
I’m a qualified skipper, holding the following certificates:
- Groot Vaarbewijs (large inland vessels qualification), all inland waters
- Sailing certificate (for sailing charter vessels)
- Radar certificate
- SRC certificate (VHF radio, Marcom B)
As a skipper, I can help you with:
- Coaching: Getting to know your own boat even better while sailing or manoeuvring.
- Delivery trips: Getting your new or current boat safely to its destination.
- Flat-bottomed boats: Join me for instruction aboard our classic Dutch “vissermanschouw” Sam.
All-round
The best jobs are often the questions that don’t fit into a neat box. Because I take a broad view of boats, you can come to me with pretty much anything.
- Trip planning: Talking through your plans and route together.
- Second opinion: A quick call if you’re unsure about a boat, or a proposed upgrade or repair.
- Custom requests: Got a specific challenge? Get in touch.
Boat rental
Nothing is as carefree as sailing a boat you can rely on. Our Sam is easy to handle, spacious and dependable. Fancy heading out on a well-equipped 10.50-metre “Blomschouw”? Get in touch to hear about the options.